Joey Pigza Loses Control
By Jack Gantos
A Newbery Honor Winner
Harper Trophy - March 5, 2002
ISBN: 0-06-441022-6 - Paperback
Children's Fiction
Reading Ages 6-9

Reviewed by Jo Rogers, MyShelf.Com
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This award-winning book is our second adventure with the lovable but hyperactive kid, Joey Pigza. This time, with patches firmly in hand, Joey is on his way to visit with his father. Yes, Carter Pigza has called Joey's mom, Fran, and has said he has quit drinking and has been living with his mother in Pittsburgh. He now wants to spend the summer with his son. So, Joey, happy to know that his Grandma didn't fall down the storm sewer and wash away, is going to see his dad, and is taking his new dog with him.

Fran has described Carter Pigza as being like Joey, only bigger. In a way, she is right. Joey can tell the minute he meets his dad that he is also wired, just like Joey without his medicine. He vibrates with uncontrolled - and uncontrollable - energy. Joey begins to wonder if this is a good idea, especially when Carter begins to talk, rattling on and on, without letting anyone else say a word. Oh, you can talk to Carter, but he doesn't ever hear you.

Joey's doubts become reality when he finds that his dad is still drinking. He also has a girlfriend, Leezy, that actually can keep Carter under some semblance of control. But even that is limited and leaves Joey in real danger of losing what control of himself he has gained.

JOEY PIGZA LOSES CONTROL is both hilarious and heartbreaking. Joey's antics are funny, but the fact that he can't stop doing them is not funny at all. The reader can sympathize with Joey when he wants to be normal without drugs, and we cheer when he does the right thing, even without his medicine. It is a must-read book for all kids and parents.

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